How to get a logo for $30

Logos are a trap. Let me explain that statement: they are a place many startups get stuck. A logo is what identifies you. It's the symbol that takes up space in a customer's mind when they think about your company. There is no symbol that is more connected to your company than a logo. This traps entrepreneurs because it drives many of us to want the perfect logo.

This is how I got Review Signal's logo created in 3 days from start to finish for $30.

Step 1. Write down what you're looking for in a logo

The formula I generally follow is:

What is the name of your company?

What style of logo do you want? (text/icon/character/etc)

What does the company do?

What sort of associations does the name have?

What am I trying to communicate with the logo?

Who is your target audience?

What color(s) do I want?

Is this for web and/or print?

What are some examples of logos you like?

Optional:

Links to current designs/mockups.

Any other information that might be relevant about your business or in regards to the designer (eg. if you liked a particular they designed before)

Step 3. Find some designers with logos you like and hire them

Make sure you pass along the information you wrote in step 1. Make sure to follow any special instructions they might have. Also double check the deliverables to make sure you get a source file, generally .psd/.ai, in addition to .jpg/.png/.gif.

One concern that comes up is does this count as work for hire and who owns the rights? Fiverr says this:

Buyers are granted all rights for the delivered work, unless otherwise specified by the seller in the gig description. Fiverr retains the right to use all published delivered works for Fiverr marketing and promotion purposes.

So just make sure the designer hasn't revoked your ownership and rights.

I ended up hiring 6 that I liked ($5 x 6 designers = $30).

Step 4. Get revisions

Most of them include some number of revisions, often that number is 1. They also may deliver a few variations/options for you to choose from. This step can be hard because you will get results asynchronously. Your instinct will be to see all of them before asking for revisions. However, Fiverr only gives you 48 hours to accept or decline work after it's been delivered. Ask for the revisions you want on the logo you like most or think could be the best after revision.

If you can get feedback from users/friend/anyone in between these revisions, do it.

I received 11 logos from the 6 designers.

Step 5. Get feedback

I ended up with 11 options. I ran a survey about which logo people liked the most. The one my respondents chose also happened to be the one I liked most, so I was set. If they don't agree with your personal opinion then you have a tougher choice.

Step 6. Get back to building your startup

Exhibit A: Logos Received

Let's Connect!

Hey there! My name is Kevin Ohashi. I am the founder of Review Signal which currently does web hosting reviews.

I like to blog about startups, business, economics, marketing, programming and domain names. My current passion is analyzing data and finding patterns and insights hidden in data that nobody else realizes is there!

I am also working on a Gift Discovery/Gift Inspiration website called Gift Lizard that let's you find gift suggestions by describing the person you're trying to buy for.

I also use my blog to keep track of my own life, so you can see my reading list and personal posts on occasion.